Dear I'taira,
It's so strange to hear you call me queen. In reality I'm not the queen. But even Ranger sometimes calls me Queen Raina. I would rather you not call me that. I don't feel . . . right being called that. But knowing you you'll call me queen anyways. I am glad that Ranger and I were able to bring joy into your camp. Though I was disappointed in you when you had a fight with Gi. It was a pointless fight. It's not like either of you can tell him to do this or that. Ranger wont even listen to the Duke's advice anymore. But he has called a council for himself. Terk is on it and Abe, occasionally, and a lot of other Warriors from all types of places. I say that Abe is on it occasionally because he has been given the tedious duty of protecting me. Though I don't see what good he's doing. But Ranger insisted. You will not believe how word of our marriage spread through the rebellion. The gossip and rumors spread around faster in the rebellion than any dragon can fly. But again I have never seen a dragon fly only heard of them in stories.
Back to you. Sorry I keep getting side tracked. When I read about Master S'oturi I was so sad. He really is a good man. I feel sorry that he is under the control of Y'ata at times. I was so glad that Gi was able to rescue you. I can't wait to know the date of your wedding. I hope I may attend. Is I'talia married to Benk? I haven't told Ranger yet that they are very in love. But from what you said in the letter it would seem that they are already so much in love that they are married.
In fact right now I'm waiting to see Ranger. It's been over a week since I've seen him. It has been driving me crazy! I insisted on taking that long walk all the way to the front of the rebellion to see him. Abe and Emlyn came with me. It surprised me greatly that Emlyn decided to come. She never goes out much. Abe wont stop looking at her. She ignores him quite well. Right now she's reading a book while I sit here writing to you trying to calm myself. Ranger was supposed to meet with me at noon but it is two hours past and I'm getting a little anxious. His meetings always go over. I wish that there was some way that you could be here helping Ranger and I.
I'm so excited for you. Some one has finally tamed the wild beasts heart. You and Gi will be perfect for each other. In truth Luc was too . . . calm for you, and too nice to be some one who would balance you. You think I rushed things don't you? I don't blame you for thinking so. I find my self thinking the same, everything is rushing on its self. But you will wait to get married until I can be there right? Though I did get married with out you here. I still can't believe I'm married to the person that I thought didn't like me.
The guards at the gate are yelling. Somethings happening, I'll write later.
A great many things have happened. I don't know where to start. I will admit at the beginning of this that it has been almost a week since I last wrote. So many things- . You want to know what happened right? When I last wrote I had heard the guards yelling. I took off to the main gate Abe and Emlyn only a few steps behind me. When I got to the main officer I asked what the trouble was. "Lady Raina," he said, "my scouts have caught sight of soldiers. The Kings soldiers. They were chasing two people, a man and a woman." My heart skipped several beats. What if it was you? Or any person from your group! "Have you sent any one out to help them?" I asked. I will have to say I was in a bit of a temper now. "No my Lady," he said. "We were about to send a messenger to Lord Ranger and ask him if we should send men out to help them." I stood with my mouth open looking in disbelief at this man. Did he need permission to do everything? And this was the first time I had heard my self referred to as "Lady" and Ranger as a "Lord". "Send the messenger and tell Ranger that I already left to help them," I said. The guard looked at me in a strange way as I turned to face the gate. Abe knew what I was going to do and jumped forward to grab me. (It was also his unfortunate duty to make sure I didn't go running off with no assistance.)
I was desperate, what if it was you running. So I had lunged upward into the air before Abe had been able to get near enough to touch me. Luckily I had chosen to wear my fighting cloths so I was ready for battle. I felt a small push in the air as the large gates were being opened behind me for the men. I landed on the ground in a crouch about ten paces from the forest. I heard two people panting hard and clanking metal not far behind them. I stood up and pulled my sword out ready to fight anyone who came out of the trees.
To my utter astonishment it was Luc who ran out of the trees holding the hand of the strangest looking girl I have ever seen. Luc stopped abruptly staring at me. I couldn't believe he had the guts to come here, to the rebellion. Every one knew he was a traitor. But I didn't have any time to speak to him because the soldiers burst from the trees. I flung a spell at them that threw them off balance long enough for Luc and his new partner to get away. I then ran on the group of soldiers in no mood for fighting them. I wanted to hear from Luc what pathetic excuse he had come up with. I killed several of the soldiers before the rebellion guards got there. I let them chase the Kings men into the woods. I turned around and walked over to were Luc stood breathing heavily with that woman. "What on earth do you mean by coming here?" I yelled at Luc. He jumped in surprise. "It's me Luc. Don't you remember me Raina?" he asked softly. "Of course I remember you! You traitor! You almost killed Benk and I'talia!" I said. I don't know exactly how loud I was yelling but I imagine it was pretty loud.
"I didn't lead them into that!" Luc said defensively. "Oh really?" I said. "Honestly Raina I didn't," he said again. I wasn't going to believe him that easily. I pointed my sword at his neck. I wasn't about to forgive him for what he had done. He had hurt your heart, he had destroyed Emlyn, and he had led I'talia and Benk into a trap. My sword tip brought a drop of blood from him before the most shocking thing happened. My sword was blown out of my hand. I looked down at the woman in surprise. "We shan't quarrel over such minimal things. Clear your mind like the clear springs in the mountains and let us speak like the book bringing knowledge to the unlearned," said the strange woman. She sounded like a hundred year old Sage in wisdom. But she didn't look any older than you. I glared at her for a long time. Luc cleared his throat. "Raina," he said, "This is the Mage Bud." "Bud?" I asked him. "Yes,"Luc said. "She brought me back to health after I had escaped from Y'ata." I was shocked. I thought that Y'ata and I were the only Mages. At least we were the only ones I knew of.
Ranger then came out followed by Emlyn and Abe who looked a little wild after the fight with the soldiers. The moment Emlyn's eyes landed on Luc she stopped for a moment, then she strode forward and was about to strike Luc but her hand was pulled back by Bud's magic. Emlyn looked murderous. I grabbed her arm and pulled her back, though she fought against me. Luc's face lit up and he was about to hug Emlyn but I pushed him back with my magic. Partly to keep Emlyn from attacking him and also so that I could let the other Mage know I also had some control in this. "Now would be a good time to explain all this," I said. Luc nodded.
"As you know Benk I'talia and I were trying to find the rebellion or at least find and save I'taira unless she had already been saved," Luc said. "Y'ata appeared and surprise attacked us. Benk fought pushing I'talia to the wild trees hoping that they could escape that way. Benk turned and they both fled, with some wounds. I killed the soldiers who tried to pursue them. I received several wounds and I fell crumpled to the ground because of them. Weed had been gone for several days and I knew I was going to die, and Weed wouldn't be able to do anything to help. Y'ata stepped in front of me smiling viciously. I didn't want to be thrown into his Tower of Deth. I didn't want to go there and maybe find I'taira dead. That was when Weed appeared. I don't know how he did it but Weed was able to get me out of there. He brought me to the mountains and left me on a path. I was losing a lot of blood. Though I had this feeling that I should continue up the path. I don't know how long it was until I came to Bud's house. But when I did arrive I was completely delirious. She led me into her house and laid me on a bed. I passed out for several days and when I came to I was too weak to get up. Bud nursed me back to health. She has been a hermit almost her whole life. She has studied the arts of Magic use and she has such a vast store of knowledge it is overwhelming." With this Luc looked at Bud and gave her a a large smile. I didn't know how to interpret it. "When I had gotten better Weed showed up again and kept pulling us towards the rebellion. Bud said that we should follow the Ajatars suggestion, so we did. A few hours ago the soldiers happened upon us and we fled. Then you came to our rescue Raina." Luc gave me a thankful glance.
We stood in silence for a while. The cold winds blowing around us. "Have you not heard that Zel is engaged to marry King Gioto?" I asked. Luc looked at me with such surprise I almost thought he was serious. "What?" he asked in disbelief. "Luc would you permit me to look through your memories to make sure that you aren't a servant to Y'ata?" I said. If he said no then we would all know that he was a traitor. "Of course," Luc said. I hesitated at his willingness but used the spell that I thought I would never have use for. I put my pointer finger on his temple and sifted through his memories. I only saw images of him being the good person that he is. I searched for any sign that he might be with holding something from me but he wasn't. I pulled my hand away from his head and looked at him in surprise. We had all suspected him for so long. We all thought that he had been a servant to Y'ata and in a few moments I found out that he had just been in the wrong place at the wrong time. "Forgive me Luc," I said. "I have suspected you of betrayal. I'm sorry." Luc smiled. "That's alright Raina. Every one makes their own mistakes. But I have to ask why you weren't answering my letters?" he said. "What letters?" I asked. "I haven't received any from you." "That's strange,"Luc said. "Though I did send it on the birds that Bud summoned for me. I guess they weren't able to get inside the caves of the rebellion. And probably haven't yet found I'taira." He paused then looked up and smiled.
"Emlyn I thought you had died, or been imprisoned." Luc said. Emlyn watched him with a little uncertainty. But Luc stood with his arms open to her. She walked shyly forward then fell into his open arms. Tears rolled down Luc's face. "I thought I lost you," he whispered. Luc released Emlyn and wiped away his tears and smiled (again). "Enough of this," he said. "Who are the others?" I pointed to Abe. "This Abe I'taira's friend," I said. "I'taira spoke well of you Master Abe," Luc said. Abe nodded blushing a little. "This is my husband Ranger," I said. "Ranger this is Luc." They shook hands and smiled at each other.
Luc reached down and helped Bud to her feet. She had been sitting on the ground while we had talked. When she was on her feet she went forward to shake my hand and some how managed to trip on her dress and landed face first in the dirt. "Are you alright?"I asked her after Luc and I had helped her to her feet. "Yes I'm just fine,"she said smiling. "It happens all the time. It's nice to meet you Raina. Though the fire flies of brilliance have overwhelmed me. You have more power than even Luc told me. I thought to compare your power with a small camp fire but yours is more like a volcano. You have been blessed with much power from the heavens." "What are talking about? Don't you have just as much power as I do?" I asked. "Did you not know that the heavens bless some with more power and others with more knowledge?"Bud asked. "I suppose that Mage knowledge is lost to most of the unlighted world," she added. I smiled. Bud is so different.
To catch you up with what's going on right now will be important. Luc is helping Ranger organize the troops. Bud is living with Emlyn and me. There isn't a day that goes by that Bud doesn't fall or brake something. Emlyn is sort of disgusted with her. Bud isn't that pretty but she is very sweet. She is very brilliant just extremely clumsy. I like her a lot. But I'm getting tired of her. She is teaching me spells. I have learned so many and I keep learning more. Bud says that she was blessed with the ability to keep knowledge so that she could teach one with enough power to defeat the worst enemy. She has the most perfect foresight. I have asked her what she has seen will happen between me and Y'ata. But for some reason it is unclear to her. She can't figure out why. Well she's calling to start my training again. At least one of my problems has been diminished. I have learned more spells!
I love you so much. I miss you and hope you will be with us soon. Your group is the only people that I can think of that we need. Hurry, I can't wait to see you again. I wonder what you would think of Bud?
Love forever,
Raina
P.S. Please don't kill Luc when you see him. Though there is a part I left out. I didn't want to write about it earlier but now I think I must. When I was going through Luc's mind I saw that he had fallen in love with Bud. And Bud loves Luc so much. Every spare moment we have she tells me all the kind things Luc does. Then when I'm with Luc he tells me the things Bud does. It is very annoying. But they are in love and I thought I should tell you. Well good luck on your journey. And please don't arrive here married to Gi.
36
35
My Dearest Queen Raina,
34
Dear I'taira,
Your letter lightens my heart. Your friends miss you and Benk so much. They can't wait to see both of you. Abe and I have become very good friends. I can tell that Kira views me as a little child in some ways but that's alright. Abe and I sword fight every few days. Some times for practice and others just to show off. I had no idea that Abe had such a flare for showing off. He seems so quite at times but when he has an opportunity to shine forth he doesn't hesitate. Now I know why you loved Warrior Training so much. Abe loves teaching. He has no scruple in correcting my teaching styles. I of course come up with great things to say back to him. Abe is getting quite annoyed with me. When ever we fight I'll fight as long as I can with out magic. But as soon as I see that he might win I use magic then I win. He gets so mad. It's fun having friends. Abe says that you had so many suitors at Warrior Training, but that you always denied it and said nobody liked you. Abe told me how on some nights, in the boys sleeping tents, the boys would stay up late making bets on who could get you talk to them. They would always ask Abe what you were like. He said it was so irritating. Why didn't you ever tell me about this?
Kira and Terk are such a good couple. They are both very strong in the rebellion. I still don't think any one approves of Ranger liking me. Kira doesn't, that's for sure. I think that she was hurt a little bit from my disguise. Though Terk is very funny. He'll say the funniest things. The other night Ranger had managed to get a way from the Duke and we all sat up talking at the training area. Kira sat close to Terk holding his hand, Ranger had his arm around my waste pulling me close while Abe sat by himself feeling a little awkward. Kira is so straight forward. She thinks that we should straight on attack the King and Y'ata. Terk thinks that we should start causing a little trouble here and there for the King. Abe says that we should take small groups and destroy out posts. Ranger always listens quietly to your friends but then he always manages to make their ideas so illogical and full of folly that it would be suicide to do them. Ranger has absolute respect from your friends. I think he has it from everybody. That's probably why Kira doesn't talk about Ranger when I'm around. She has too much respect for him to tell me that she doesn't approve of me. We had a great night. We all just talked and I told your friends what you used to be like in the village then they would tell me what you were like in Warrior Training. Some how we got to the subject of Benk and his betrayal. I don't know if they fully trust Benk. I do. I think he was just confused for a little bit. But I know that deep down they do forgive him.
You may hate me for this but I did tell your friends about you and Gi. I've never seen Kira smile so much or Terk look all around pleased and Abe just laughed. Then I remembered about Benk and I'tailia. I never did tell Ranger so I told the whole group. No one said anything for a while. I think they were unsure. Ranger was in deep contemplation but didn't say anything. Kira broke the silence saying that it was definitely Benk who would end up with royalty. We all laughed and changed the subject. But Ranger remained oddly quite. I haven't seen Ranger for a few days and frankly, I'm worried about him. I don't know what I said but obviously it was important. Some times I just don't understand him. I try but no matter what I do I can't figure him out. But I suppose that's one of the reasons I love him. Can you imagine what would have happened if I had said yes to Carcon. You remember the farm help I wrote about right? Well all I can say is that I'm glad I didn't say yes just because he was the first one to ask me. I've got to go teach so I'll write in a few hours.
You wont believe what happened! It's so funny that it almost distracts me from my depression. I took a break from teaching and Abe and I started to fight. He gave me a few pointers here and there but stopped abruptly. I turned around confused as to why he stopped. There, walking by, was Emlyn. Her solemn face glittering in the light, her hair flowing around her as if it was blowing in a breeze. She looked at me and waved and I waved back. I looked at Abe and saw that his eyes didn't leave Emlyn until she was out of sight. I couldn't help it, I laughed. It was too funny. Abe is in love with Emlyn. He could scarcely draw his eyes off her. He watched me as I tried to control my laughter. His face turning bright red with embarrassment. "Raina be quite," Abe said. I couldn't stop laughing. It was just too hysterical. Emlyn, the quite girl, who never talked to any body but me and Ranger had some how accidentally caused Abe to like her. Every one thought that I was going insane. So I had to force my self to calm down. "Raina please don't tell any one," Abe said after a while. "I don't have to tell any one,"I said. " All I would have to do is bring Emlyn with me." "Raina it's not funny!" And then we started sword fighting again. After we were done and started to put things away Abe wouldn't stop mumbling. "What do you have to say?" I asked. "Raina would you ask Lady Emlyn what she thinks of me?" Abe said. His face was so earnest that I had to say that I would.
I'm at Emlyn's house right now. I really should ask her but I don't want to. Now that I'm back in the house with her my depression has come back. Emlyn's so solemn and sad. You probably want to know why I'm so depressed. Well I've come to a point in teaching in which I have nothing else to teach. I've taught them all I know. It's alarming how much I don't know. That's why I'm depressed. No, I'm not depressed, I'm frustrated. I am so -- mad, that I can't know more. I wish I had known I was a Mage my whole life, and had been able to study. You know so much about what you are. Me . . . I'm not so lucky. Do you still miss Luc? Emlyn does. I think that's why she's so sad all the time. She misses Luc. Can you imagine what it would be like if I betrayed you?
I can't help but smile every time I think of Abe. Now I know why he is so distant to all the other girls in the rebellion. He has a heart for only one person, Emlyn. Well here I go.
I asked her and you won't believe what she said. "Abe who?" I know perfectly well that she knows who Abe is. She doesn't want to let any one into her heart. I wouldn't be surprised if she dies an old maid! How can this be! I should just calm down. Emlyn must not know what kind of man she's turning down! But I suppose all will turn out right in the end.
A messenger boy just came with a note from Ranger. Ranger is so sweet. With the note he sent me a deep red cave flower. It tells of the true and undying love of a person. Oh, so the note was an invitation to a dinner with Ranger and the Duke. I sent a note back with the boy saying that I accepted. But I have to find a nice dinner dress! I don't know where to find one or how to pay for it. I'm going to go see Kira and see if she can help me. She's very good with this sort of stuff.
Later:
So much has happened since I last wrote to you. It's now morning of the day after I last wrote. I'll try to be brief but that's almost impossible. I went to Kira and she knew a lady who owned a dress shop. We went and in the very back was a beautiful gown. It is a white fabric with sparkles every where. The cut followed my body shape perfectly, flaring out a little at the bottom. The sleeves go to my elbows but droop quite a bit looking very fashionable, with a large oval neckline that goes shoulder to shoulder but doesn't go very low. It comes with a deep red velvet cloak. I knew that this would be perfect but how to pay for it was a whole new question. The lady was very unwilling to part with it but with Kira's persuasive ways we were able to get the dress for almost nothing. I had to bless the ladies business that it would flourish once the rebellion was over. I know that if we do ever get out of this thing alive I'm willing to shop at her dress shop any time. Kira insisted that I go to her house and let her do my hair and dress me up. And the Duke lives close to Kira's house so it would be easier for me to get there. I agreed. It only took us few hours but I thought it would never end. She did my hair up in a bun covered with small braids and delicate curls. Small wisps of hair hanging down were curled also. I looked just like a princess. I put on the dress and it looked way better on me in Kira's house then it did in the shop. I loved the feel of the fabric against my skin. Though I do miss my traveling pants and over leather shirt, though I can't lie I did like how the dress looked on me. Kira helped to do the finishing touches and I was done.
Ranger came to get me from Kira's home. I have no idea how he knew I was there but he did. I had my cloak on so he hadn't seen my dress. I was a little giddy with excitement. Ranger held my hand as we walked to the Dukes. "Does he mind that I'm coming?" I asked. "I told him I wouldn't dine with him unless you were there," Ranger said. I was satisfied with that answer. When we reached the Dukes house I was so nervous that Ranger wouldn't like my gown. He had already complemented me on how my hair looked so I hoped he would like the dress. I distracted my self by look at the Dukes house, it's very grand, probably the nicest house in the rebellion. Ranger led me into the dining area and offered to take my cloak. I let him help me take it off. He didn't say anything as he hung up my cloak but I could see in his eyes that he was pleased. He slid his arm around my waste and led me to the table. "You look like an angle," he whispered into my ear. I finally could breath again. It's so strange how much I want to please him. The Duke came in and we all talked over a fine meal. I caught the Duke appraising me several times that night. I think he approves of me now. The younger Duke was feeling very flirtatious but I ignored him to the best of my ability. Several times I could tell Ranger wanted to burst out laughing. Other than that the dinner was a pleasant one. After it was over the Duke requested that we stay and have some entertainment together. But Ranger politely refused. I was happy that it was over. It's always a little awkward when I meet with the Duke, because of what I had done to him.
Ranger didn't want to take me home yet so he suggested that we go outside for a walk. I agreed. The sun was about to set and already several torches were lit. We walked over to the pond where I had washed so many cloths with Kira. Ranger led me to a willow tree that I had never took much notice of. He led me inside the branches and leaves. When we were out of sight he kissed me softly. "Raina, "he said. "I have to move up to the front of the rebellion. But you have to stay in the back with Emlyn. That's a good three to four hour walk from here." "Why do you have to move?" I asked. "I'm going to be the leader. I need to be at the front,"Ranger said. We held each others hands looking through the leaves at the pond. "If that's what you must do then you should do it," I said. "Why can't I move closer though?" "Raina I need you to be in the back helping the others." "I want to be in the front with you," I argued softly. "I want you to be with me also. But it's just not going to work like that,"he said. I hugged him and just didn't want to let go. I had lost him once and I didn't want to lose him again. "Raina?" "Yes,"I said. "Would you - no I'm doing this wrong," he said. He pulled away and walked around in a circle thinking.
He strode up to me took my hand and knelt on one knee. "Raina, will be my wife?"he asked. His eyes locked with mine and I thought. All I cared about was him. All I wanted to do was help him. I had almost unwillingly given my heart to him. He was probably the best man I would ever know. I went to my knees and threw my arms around his neck and kissed his cheek."Yes, of course," I said in a whisper. He jumped up and we twirled around in a few circles. We ended the spins with my arms around his neck and staring up into his face. He hugged me then gave me a kiss. "Let's go find a man with a proper licence to marry us," Ranger said. He pulled me out of the tree. "Tonight?" I asked a little shocked. "If that's alright I was hoping we could be married before you go back to Emlyn's, since we wont know when we'll see each other again." "My sister-" I said but I trailed off. I hope you don't mind. I agreed to be married when ever he decided.
We found a preacher and had Kira and Terk be the witnesses. Ranger wanted to be married in front of the pond with the moon light shining down on us. It seemed like Ranger controlled the whole world. Every thing worked out just like he wanted it to. The preacher asked for my name and my parents. I looked at Ranger and smiled. "I'm Ishraina second daughter to Sir I'tone and Lady Ishona," I said. Ranger looked at me sharply. "Are you really their daughter?" he asked. I nodded. Ranger went up to the Preacher and whispered in his ear who he was. I gave him a questioning look. "I'll tell you after we're married," he said. And so there we were. Him in a nice suit me in the most beautiful dress I've ever worn, getting married in front of a pond with the moon shining around us, and the stars winking. My gown just sparkled and I could almost believe I was in heaven. You wont believe this but Ranger actually had a diamond ring. He said that it was the only thing that would work for his wife. It's in a long diamond shape cut and it's set into a gold band with silver lines in it. The ring shines every time I shift my hand and I feel like a queen. He even had a ring for him self. Which I slid onto his finger. We kissed and we were married. The two most unlikely travelers, end up getting married. We thanked the preacher, Kira and Terk. After they all left we went back under the willow tree and sat against the trunk of the tree. I leaned against my husband (it's so weird to call him my husband).
"Raina, I have to tell you some things I don't think you'll believe," he said. "I'll try my best," I said. "And if you would try to not interrupt,"he said. "I'll try."
"My name isn't Ranger," he started out. "But I wont tell you what it is right now. I was . . . I'll just tell you, you have to know. I am the crown prince of the land I'ikane. I know I should have told you before now but it wasn't the right timing. When I was born I was sent to the house of my fathers best friend. The Duke I'tone. He and Duchess Ishona hadn't had any children so my father new I would be well looked after until I was old enough to return. When I was two Duchess Ishona had her first child, a daughter. Great happiness surrounded this event and I was sure I was going to be taken home. But it was not to be. My parents had had another son. They had sent him to live with some other family. I wanted to meet my brother but I wasn't allowed to. I was still too young. When I was three Duchess Ishona was with child again and was expecting her child very soon. That's when the worst of worst started to happen.
"I'tone was a magician. He sensed something was wrong. He felt the presence of another magic user approaching. He sent out scouts and found out that Y'ata was on his way. Y'ata had been the Mage at the castle that attended to the royalty's needs. But I'tone didn't trust him. He took his wife and his one year old daughter and placed protective spells over them. He sent them away to Duchess Ishona's sisters house. Her sister was a poor farmer and I'tone hopped that she and his daughter and his soon to be born child would be protected. I'tone sent me to the house of Medonia, after he put a spell on me that would allow me to remember all this. The Medonia family were very trusted acquaintances I'tone. And the Lord and Lady Medonia had a son a little bit younger than my self. I'tone explained to me that Y'ata was never to be trusted. All Y'ata wanted was to be King. He also said that Y'ata wanted to kill me so that my younger brother could have the thrown. Some how every one already knew that I was going to be a great king. One that wasn't going to be controlled easily. The next thing I knew I'tone had been killed by Y'ata. Their battle lasted for several hours of intense spell casting but in the end Y'ata killed your father."
A silent tear fell down my face. The father that I had always wanted to know had died. I missed him, even thought I didn't know him. I could also tell how much Ranger cared for our father. His voice was getting a little unsteady. He kissed my forehead, and continued his story.
"I mourned too. I'tone had been like a father to me. In fact your family was more like a family to me then my real one. But I did spend several years in peace with the Medonia family. Their son and I became fast friends. You could almost never find us apart. You know the Medonia's son, as Gi." Ranger paused letting this sink in then continued. "My sister, I'talia, had also been born. She was living at a house only a few miles to the west. I would always visit her. When she was four all she did was talk about me. And we spent several hours a day playing with each other. Y'ata soon discovered where I was and visited the Medonia house. Y'ata had the whole house in a lock down for three days. He almost killed me but he had seen something. Something that scared him so he didn't. But he walked the house for three days often looking at my friend. Then Y'ata had his plan. He put my friend under an enchantment that made him Y'ata's prisoner. Y'ata then threatened to kill my sister if I ever tried to over throw what he was planing. I made Y'ata promise that she would be safe if I left. He promised. So I left. I changed my name to Ranger and watched, at a distance, as my country start to fall.
"I was hurt deeply by what I had caused others to suffer. I traveled place to place begging for food. That's when I met Emlyn and her mother. I learned how 
to survive with their help. And how to get people to respect me. From then on I traveled to give service to others. Hoping that some day I would be able to lead these people to freedom. And that's when you kidnapped I'talia. And Y'ata went after me to kill me so I couldn't be freed from the promise we had given to each other. But I met you."
We sat in silence for a long time. This explained everything. I now knew why I hadn't become a Mage until later. Our fathers spell not only protected us from outside magic but also from inside magic. It wore off over the years and that's how I'm able to use magic now. "What's your real name?" I asked. Ranger smiled. "It's I'iton," he said. "I don't like it," I said with out thinking. He laughed. "You can call me Ranger. In fact I'd rather you call me Ranger."
I suppose this is a lot of information for you to think about. It certainly was for me. Good luck. And tell I'talia that her brother sends his love.
Love,
Raina.
P.S. I still can't believe that I'm married. And I'm married to a KING! Remember that only you and I, Emlyn and your friends know who Ranger really is. Ranger also said that you can only tell your traveling friends and no one else. I miss you.
33
My Dearest Raina,
32
Sister,
Why do men have to be so annoying? Ranger . . . he . . . he wont tell me anything about your friends, even though I know he knows something. He just says that it is rebellion secrets! He wont tell me anything. Don't worry we still love each other. Though this rebellion thing has been a large source of arguments. I don't mean to fight him. You know me. In the village I would scarcely raise my voice but now I fight and - YA'NA! Oh magic! When I said that I set my desk on fire. That's why I haven't said that word lately, it causes things to catch on fire. Sister every time I use my magic it comes out in big bursts. I don't know why. I have been so frustrated and angry. Why do things have to be this way?
Sorry. Let me talk about your letter for a little while. I need to calm down. So Benk and I'talia are in love. I wonder what Ranger would think of that. He always is a little worried about her for some strange reason. Gi kissed you! That is so sweet. But I wish I could be there for you. You need a good cry and I wish I could be there for you. If Luc only knew how much he is hurting you. If I ever get my hands on him I will . . . no I wouldn't be able to hurt him. He was too good of a person. No matter if he is with Y'ata, he was still a good person. Sister I'm so sorry for you. I want to give you such comfort but I seem to be at a loss of what to say. Just remember that I will always be here for you. Gi must see that you just need some time. I'm sure he'll wait for you. Gi doesn't strike me as some unintelligent person. If he really loves you then he'll be patient. I have been wondering what Sol's book is about? Sages don't read books unless they have great knowledge in them. But I may be wrong. I hope you all have protection as you continue your journey. That sword! It must be beautiful. I told you they weren't dead. The Amazing Unstoppable Five! Did you really tell your friends about that? I feel really childish for making it up. I should have been able to think of something better. But it sounds like a beautiful sword.
Did I ever tell you how I got my sword? I don't think I have. Mater Sotur'i had been teaching me with a dull sword and he decided that I needed a real sword and had one made for me. Inscribed on the blade are the words : Though Strong I be, Over Estimate Thee I Will Not. Though it's a strange saying it has reminded me time and time again not to over estimate. Did you also know that I have been taking sword fighting lessons from Giant? Ranger said that I should just do it to make it look more natural. It's so embarrassing. I have to act like I'm awful at it. It hurts my pride but I suppose that's all right. Though I have picked up some useful hints. I'm sure Giant thinks I'm an awful Mage. But oh well. He hasn't told any one so it's just him who would think I'm awful.
I have to go and visit Emlyn so I'll write to you later.
Later:
Sages! How can you stand them! Emlyn is a sage. I had no idea. She seemed to have gotten her powers when she left her aunt. Emlyn just spent a whole hour trying to convince me to join the rebellion. She never stopped her endless talking. How can you stand traveling with one? I . . . am overreacting. But it was so awful to be lectured for so long on how to do this or that. As if I can't do anything myself! Ranger came and picked me up early. (He insists on walking me everywhere.) He gave Emlyn a glare that obviously said "Your not helping." Emlyn looked some what ashamed. But I know she really had actually enjoyed it. Why do I have to be a part of the rebellion? I have to make a decision soon. But I need to make it by my self though. I thank you for your opinion and Sol's. But Sister I don't know what to do. This is so devastating! Why can't life be simple? Why are our lives so drastically difficult? We are the nieces of farmers! Why do we have so much power? I have to go on a walk. I'm driving myself crazy just thinking about this.
You will not believe what happened! I can't comprehend what just happened. So I went to go on a walk and Ranger was there and asked he if he could walk with me. I didn't really want him to but I said he could. We walked in silence through the busy streets and I found that I was grateful for his company. After a while a tall, skinny, old looking man came up to Ranger. This man was followed by a younger version of him. They were both dressed nicely and had high cheek bones and thin faces. Ranger stopped. "Duke what brings you out here?"he asked. The Duke snorted. "What do you think your doing with that garbage?"the Duke said pointing to me. "Excuse me?" Ranger asked. I couldn't believe that that man had actually called me garbage, as if I couldn't hear him! "Ranger you know as well as I do that you can do better. Why fall for such low dirt when it doesn't even have anything to it?" the Duke said with resignation. My mouth dropped this man had called me garbage, dirt and an it! I was starting to lose my temper. "Sir-,"Ranger started to say but I pushed Ranger gently aside so I was standing in front of the Duke. By now a small group of people had stopped to listen. "Sir how dare you call me such foul names!"I said trying to keep my voice calm. "I do not wish to speak to you, peasant," he said. Filling the last word with utter disgust. That was it! I grabbed his throat with my now magic enhanced arm. "You may be taller than me but you are in no situation higher than any one here!" I my self was surprised at how sharp and clam my voice sounded. "You will apologize to me immediately," I said. Guards appeared and even the boy behind the man lunged forward. But with a flick of my wrist they were thrown back. I was shocked how much power was flowing out of me. The Duke had gone red in the face, he was on his knees his hands trying to pull my fingers away from his throat. Finally after a moment of struggle the Duke gasped for breath and said, "Forgive me. I will never say such things again." I released him and he fell to the ground gasping for breath. I turned around and every one respectfully backed away from me. Ranger walked up and put an arm on my shoulder. I shook it off and ran.
Tears started to fall down my face. This is not what I had planned. I had almost hurt the Duke, very badly. He was the leader of the rebellion. I ran down an alley and leaned against the dark side of a building and cried. Ranger found me after a few minutes and stood in front of me holding my shoulders. I fell into his arms and he just held me. Then he started to chuckle. Of all things he could have done and said he started to chuckle! I looked up at him in shock. "It's about time some one put that Duke in place. I didn't want to do. I'm glad you did," Ranger said smiling down at me. I let out a small, hopeless, laugh that turned into a sob. "Raina, I would think the Duke would forgive you more willingly if you did join the rebellion," Ranger said. He held me tight. "Ranger I shouldn't have done that to him. Why didn't you stop me?" "It needed to be done,"he said. "And the timing couldn't of been more perfect." "Ranger I have never lost my temper this badly in my whole life," I said. He laughed. "Your anger was much more controlled than mine was. I was going to punch him." "How can you love me when I look like this, and act like a Mage out of control?"I asked. He lifted my head so that we were looking into each others eyes. "Raina, I never was in love with what you looked like. But who you are. You only lost control because your powers have been suppressed for so long," he said. I looked up at him with tear filled eyes. "I love you," he said. I put my arms around his neck and just held onto him. He slid his hand's around my waste. I pulled back a little and he kissed me. It was our third kiss. Sister it's so funny how we've kissed in a alley way twice. He pulled back. "I think it's time you decide who's side your on," he said. "I'm on what ever side your on," I said. "I will join the rebellion." "Let's go tell the Duke that Raina, the Mage, has finally arrived."
Our meeting with the Duke wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. But he wouldn't stop apologizing. I told him it was fine and that I hoped he had learned his lesson, and that I was sorry. He would then tell me that he had learned his lesson and then apologize again. When we left I had been given the assignment of teaching other magic users new spells. I still had my magic mask on and when I suggested I take it off Ranger said I should wait a little bit longer. Ranger lead me to the training center. When we got there the laundry lady was talking with her husband (Gorilla), and Giant. They stopped when they saw Ranger and waved him over. We both walked over to them. "Friends," Ranger said, "I want you to meet Raina the Mage." I thought Ranger had lost his mind. I didn't really want to go around telling every one that I was a Mage. But they just laughed. "Raina the Mage is supposed to be good at sword fighting,"the laundry lady said. "Giant says that she's awful." She pointed to me. Ranger nodded at me. "Let's see then," I said. The Giant looked confused but he pulled up his sword and stepped away from the others. He stood waiting, expecting me to go grab a sword. But I stood still then in a flash of movement I called my sword out of the ground and disarmed Giant with my sword at his neck in a few brief moments. I was sure that I only was able to do that because he was so shocked. The other two looked at me and Giant in unbelief. I stepped back and gave a slight bow. Then I pulled off my magical mask and vanished it. All three of them just looked at me in surprise. Ranger stepped over to me and put his arm around me. "This is I'taira's younger sister," Ranger said stepping back from me. "Raina the woman you know as the laundry lady is Kira, her husband Terk, and the Giant is Abe." Now all of us just stared and looked at each other. Kira stepped forward and gave me a hug. "You do look like your sister," she said softly. "How is your sister?"Terk asked stepping forward. "She's fine," I said after Kira let go of me. "Though she misses you all so much. Did you know that your disappearance got her into a lot of trouble." "She doesn't need our help to do that," Abe said. "She just now found the sword you left her," I said. Kira had a few silent tears but she smiled. "You have to tell us all you know," Terk said. Ranger and I then spent a good hour or two telling your friends about you. They wanted me to tell you that they are very impressed with how you escaped and can't wait to see you again.
After meeting them nothing else has really happened. Except I moved in with Emlyn sense she was the only person who wasn't afraid of me besides Ranger and your friends. I now spend most of every day training other magicians. Though it is getting frustrating. I know so little. If I have to fight Y'ata in a magic battle I don't know what will happen. Ranger has been working a lot with the people and the Duke so he and I haven't seen each other that much. But Abe and I are becoming good friends because we teach at the same time. It's becoming a lot of fun. I am glad I joined the rebellion. All your friends wish you love and long to see you.
With love,
Raina
31
Dear Raina,
30
Dear I'taira,
You're funny. How could you so calmly joke about Ranger and I being in love? It's not romantic at all, in fact it's a very serious matter. Ranger and I . . . . No use lying to you. I do love him. He is so perfect. You would like him a lot. He loves the people here in the rebellion. He goes through and will either play with the children that are on the streets or he will talk with the adults helping them fix their problems. Every one in the rebellion already respects him more than the man who is supposedly in charge. Ranger just has a way with people. People like him because he isn't so uptight, and he's willing to listen. He's so generous with his time. He will walk up and down the cave streets talking to people. He takes care of me too. He calls on me nearly every day. We go on walks together and talk. Or I go with him and talk to the people too. The children love talking to Ranger. Every time they see him they run up to him with new stories to tell or games to play. Ranger has gained the allegiance of every single person in the rebellion. He knows every person's real name. I have no idea how he remembers them all, but he does.
I have been such an insensible girl. To be blunt I had a really idiotic moment. Ranger walked me back to the bakery where I'm staying right now. He was about to leave when I couldn't help but ask him a question that had been itching at the back of my mind for several days. "Ranger," I said. He turned around. "Yes," he answered. Here came my pathetic stupid moment, "Why do you keep calling on me every day?" He smiled. I guess he was probably thinking why I asked that. And he was most likely right. We have this uncanny knack for reading each others thoughts. I asked partly because I didn't feel like I deserved to have his attentions, and I felt bad knowing other girls had set their hopes on him. I also wanted to know if I really did have his affection. He shook his head. "Raina, Raina, Raina," he said softly. "Isn't it obvious, I'm courting you." I covered my mouth as a big smile spread across my face. I knew it wasn't the proper moment to smile, but I couldn't help it. Ranger took my hand away from my mouth and kissed it. He turned away and left, giving me a small glace before he walked around the corner. Oh sister what a numskull I am. Can you believe I asked that? Me! But he was so sweet about it. And now I know that he does care for me!
Though all is not bliss. There are several people that think Ranger has gone insane. They think that I am just a country dolt who knows nothing, who is completely ugly. I was making bread the other day and these two men walked into the shop. I recognized them from being in leadership positions. One went over and told the baker lady to let them talk to me alone. She nodded and left. I felt so frustrated. One walked over to where I was working. "Miss, we have something to discuss with you," he said. Ha! I didn't want to listen so I didn't say anything. "Miss?" the man's voice had gotten quite stern. "Sir's I have no interest in what you have to say to me. Good day," I said, hoping they would leave. "You don't have to have an interest. We're going to say it any way," on of them said. The other man walked up next to the counter and said, "Ranger seems to have deep interest in you,"he paused then continued, "we don't think he should. We think that you are not good for him." Sister you have no idea how bad I wanted to use my magic to make him pay for saying that. It hurt, they were saying the exact things that I had been thinking. But they had no right to say them. "Sir's I have no idea why you are talking to me about it," I said, barely keeping my voice calm. "Ranger wont listen to us. So we want you to not see him any more,"the other one said. "And what if I refuse?"I asked. They paused. I thought how if they only knew who I was they wouldn't say such things. I could have killed them if I really wanted to. But that was no way to use my power. I then understood what had made Y'ata who he is. He had probably lost his temper and killed a few times, then glorying in the moment decided to continue down that path. But I will not be like Y'ata. I can't be like him.
One of the men cleared his voice, "You will be thrown out of the rebellion," he said. I had now regained control of my emotions so I was thinking much clearer. Do you not see how completely dumb these men are. So I couldn't do anything but laugh. "You throw me out of the rebellion?"I said, trying to stop my laughter. After a moment when my laughter subsided I continued, "Do you think that if you got rid of me Ranger would stay? He would most likely come with me. Now I think you have both overstayed your welcome. Good day." They looked slightly embarrassed and left. I knew they weren't done with my situation, so I decided to follow them.
I couldn't help it. I wanted to know what they would do now. I followed them for quite sometime. They went to where Ranger was staying. He was outside of his house talking casually with Giant. The one I told you about in my last letter, the swordsmanship master. So these men walked up to Ranger. I snuck into hiding close enough so that I could hear them but not be seen. Strangely they didn't ask Giant to leave. I wondered why but even now I don't know. One of the men walked up to Ranger and went completely ballistic. I could make out a few words like insolent, brat, not respectful. I could only assume that that man was talking about me. Ranger stood with a calm face. "What can I do about it?"he said calmly. Ranger is always able to be calm, no matter what the situation is. The other man stepped forward and said,"We didn't want to bring this up before but now we have to. Aren't you at all worried that when your Mage friend shows up she'll be a little jealous?" I couldn't believe it. They thought that I, Raina the Mage, had fallen in love with Ranger through our travels and that I would be jealous of my bakery self. I had to stifle a laugh. If only they knew. But Ranger didn't laugh, he calmly listened as both of the men explained their reasons. When they mentioned that they had gone to me and tried to reconcile me Ranger got a slightly angry look, but it was also a worried one. Maybe he knew that I would have been angry and possibly even used magic on them. "You actually went to her house?" Ranger asked. Both men nodded. "Your lucky that you weren't hurt. Now I will ask you never again to talk to her about this. And I advise you to not butt into my business again. I can handle myself." They were about to protest when Ranger gave them a sharp look telling them that their conversation was over. They were very confused too. I mean they were probably wondering how they could have been hurt. As they started to leave Ranger stopped them. "Remember that I can leave the rebellion at any time. I can start a new rebellion and I promise you that every one of your people would follow me. So remember that next time before you try to stick your noses in my business. That's all I have to say to you." Ranger said, turning back to Giant restarting their conversation. When both the men left Ranger sighed. Then looked at my hiding spot and waved me over. He had seen me. But I have no idea how he could have. I walked over at his call. Giant gave Ranger a quizzical look but said nothing. Ranger put his arm around my waste and pulled me close. "You could have gotten yourself into a lot of trouble you know,"he said to me. "Sorry, but you have no idea how frustrating it was,"I said. "I'm just glad you were able to control yourself. I know you have a temper, even though you do usually hide it in your angelic manner," Ranger said. Giant watched us still confused and feeling a little awkward I'm sure. "Giant let me introduce you to Raina the Mage of Tayna," Ranger said. Both Giant and I looked shocked. Ranger was actually telling him who I was. Giant recovered first and asked me directly if I was part of the rebellion. I had never really thought about it. I hadn't completely given my self to the rebellion. I told the giant that I wasn't sure. Ranger had a little disappointment in his face but nodded.
So that is the main thing that has happened for days. Oh sister, I still marvel at how well Ranger can be a leader. He is truly a natural. He is the perfect person for me.
Now I know what your thinking, enough about Ranger what else is going on. All in all nothing is going on. I haven't seen Ranger for a few days now. And I'm somewhat sorry to say that that's why I'm writing you. I think you're right about Y'ata. I told Ranger about Gi and your conclusions about the king. I expected Ranger to be a little surprised but he just nodded. The only thing he reacted to was Gi. When I asked him about it he simply said that now was not the time. But As to the person Y'ata most fears I have no idea. I can't possibly imagine who that could be. I highly doubt its me. I have been reviewing spells in my head and I don't know half as many as I thought I did. I don't think Y'ata knows where we are. Though all he would have to do is ask any peasant and they would tell him exactly where the rebellion is. It seems that every one knows where it is. But I have to say that it's nice to have the real you back. You had lost something in gaol but now you seem to have regained it. I can tell. My heart hurts for you. I still don't think your friends are dead, but they didn't leave us with much hope. They probably are hiding somewhere. Sister when your letter arrived I had just heard that Zel was engaged to the king. I can't imagine what is going on. I hate to cast suspicion on Luc but as you say where can we doubt him?
As for your questions I myself just work in the bakery. I sometimes help polish weapons with the laundry lady but other wise I do little to help the rebellion. The people are all very good people. All of whom have been hurt someway by the king. But in truth I have to say that they all are true at heart. As to the rumors you heard they were true. I myself witnessed some of the destruction. But it has all stopped. The reason why the rebellion was doing wrong things was because of the leadership. The man who is or was in charge is an older duke, in his early fifties. He and his son took charge only because no one else was there to lead. But in short they just had no idea what they were doing. Now that Ranger is here he has taken charge, the men are on daily routines and he has the woman keeping things going. He has taken the whole rebellion and reformed it. In the past two weeks we have had more than a hundred people join the rebellion only because Ranger is in charge. You would be a large contribution. Right now I live closer to the surface. They let new comers be closer to the sun and air so that they don't go completely insane. But I probably will have to move deeper in soon. Ranger keeps asking me to be part of the rebellion officially but I'm just not ready. Ranger just arrived so I'll write a little more later.
Later:
I'taira you will never guess who I just met. Ranger came and asked if he could introduce me to a friend of his. I of course agreed and we started on our way. We went very deep into the caves but Ranger said very little. The deeper we got the more light there was. It's very strange but there is some sort of gem in these caves that shines very bright if you light a torch. You only need about one torch every hundred feet. It is very beautiful. So Ranger and I walked for a good hour maybe longer until we reached the place we were headed for. It was a small neighborhood of houses. They all surrounded a good size pond. Their were several children running and playing. When they saw Ranger they all shouted with joy and ran up to him. He greeted them all with joy then said he was here to see "the quiet one". All the children waved goodbye to us as we reached a tiny house. Ranger knocked on the door and a slim girl answered the door. She has soft strawberry blond hair, dark blue eyes, and a sad solemn face. When she saw Ranger her eyes brightened but she didn't smile or say anything. She just opened the door so that we could enter. When we all sat down the girl looked at me and said quietly,"You do not have to ware your mask here Raina." I looked at her quizzically but calmly took off my magical mask. Ranger smiled at my face. I could tell that he was glad to see my real face again. "What's your name?" I asked. This is what will shock you. "Emlyn. I think you know my relatives," Emlyn said. "Your Luc's sister?" I asked. I couldn't believe it. Now that I knew who she was I could see the resemblance between her and Luc. "Yes I am."Emlyn said. I watched her carefully. Just because Ranger trusted her doesn't mean she is good. "Her mother is the one who taught me about the hero's," Ranger said. "Raina don't distrust her. But I'm sure she'll tell you how she escaped." Emlyn nodded and started:
"My brother and I had just arrived at my aunt M'oren's. Luc had left and gone to Warrior Training. I can not say that I was suspicious at that time. Zel and I became friends. We spent several days in happy bliss. We'd either go to the village and play with the children, or bring happiness to those around us. Joy filled those days. Not a fear in the world. That was until I noticed some strange things going on. My aunt M'oren had started to fear her ward, the Ajatar, Weed. She had been charged to take care of him but she started to fear the beautiful creature. All I wanted was to be loved but the only person who didn't have a small grudge on me was Weed. I couldn't figure it out. Even Zel had started to have no patients for me. We were still friends but she constantly wanted to be left alone. Weed and I spent more and more time together. M'oren didn't seem to mind that Weed was closer to me than to her. M'oren started to get a darker look about her, or maybe it had been there the whole time. Something was going on, but I couldn't tell what.
Luc came to visit over a week end. I hadn't noticed how much I missed him until that moment. We spent a few days together talking about this or that. Luc talked about how much he wanted to be a knight for the king. I thought that would be alright. I thought the king wasn't doing all that bad of a job. But I still didn't like the king that much. I decided I had to confide in Luc what I had noticed about M'oren and Zel. Luc just laughed at my suspicions and said that there was nothing wrong with them and that it was just my imagination. I doubted it. But Luc seemed so reassuring that I ignored my feelings. He left and went back to Warrior Training. I spent several days in quiet solace. After secluding myself for several days I decided to go and become social again. My aunt and cousin were in their tent. Weed walked up next to me and nodded toward the tent. I gave him a questioning look but he urged me on. I walked into the tent and stopped in my tracks. M'oren was sitting across from Y'ata. Zel stood between them on the far side of the table talking and nodding to what the others were saying. Y'ata had killed my mother and father. I didn't need to meet him to know that he was evil. Zel looked up and saw me. Her face filled with sorrow and turned away from me. I sprinted out of the tent. I didn't know if M'oren and Y'ata had seen me or not, but I wasn't willing to find out. I ran as far as I could. I ran for quite sometime. Adrenaline pumping me forward. Tears seemed to never stop flowing. M'oren and Zel were in leagues with Y'ata. It would only make sense that Y'ata was in control of the king. Other wise he wouldn't have such influence. Luc, my dear brother! He had supported my aunt and assured me nothing was wrong. I couldn't flee to him. I traveled as far as I could but was soon lost after a few days. But Weed showed up and led me to the rebellion, where I have stayed from theat point on."
Emlyn finished her story and we all sat in silence. "Is Luc for sure in leagues with Y'ata?" I asked. I hoped against hope that he wasn't. "I don't know. All things add up that he is," Emlyn said in her quiet tone. I felt as if I could cry. But sister don't be too hard on Luc. No one knows for sure. No one has actually seen him talking with Y'ata. How can you wish him dead? He is still your friend no matter what you say. But oh if he could see what he has done to Emlyn! That would be punishment enough. I don't think she's smiled for years. He is practically killing his sister! Oh if I ever get my hands on Luc he wont be very . . . . This is strong talk. Let me resume my story so that I can relieve my hard feelings. Ranger and I left and he walked me back to the bakery. We walked in silence for quite some time. "Why wont you join the rebellion?" Ranger asked. I didn't answer right away. "I don't really want to," I said, "I don't want to be used. I don't want to end up like Emlyn." That conversation carried on for quite some time and we each got frustrated with each other. Of course when we got to my place of lodging we had both said sorry. But I can tell that he was hurt a little. Sister what should I do?
Yours, in confusion,
Raina.
